On a biopsy report
Squamous cell carcinoma
Also written as SCC, Squamous carcinoma, Epidermoid carcinoma
What it means
This is cancer that begins in squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells on the skin and in the lining of hollow organs and of the airways and food passage. Most cancers of the anus, cervix, head and neck, and vagina are squamous cell carcinomas.
Why it matters
It names the cell type. Your oncologist uses it with the organ, grade and stage to plan treatment.
Ask your oncologist
"Where did this squamous cell cancer start, and what stage is it?"
From NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: squamous cell carcinoma. Not medical advice: your oncologist decides.